With gangsterism and substance abuse increasingly affecting young people in Toekomsrus, authorities from across the West Rand joined forces this week to bring a powerful message of safety and support to learners at Toekomsrus Primary School. What was planned as a career exhibition quickly became a crucial awareness programme aimed at steering children away from dangerous influences.

The West Rand K9 Unit, SAPS, West Rand EMS and several other stakeholders visited the school to educate learners about the risks associated with gangsterism and drug use.

Media liaison for the West Rand K9 Unit, Renier Henning, said this was the first time the school had hosted an event of this nature.

“This is about school safety. There is a lot of gangsterism in Toekomsrus, so we thought it best to spread awareness about what it entails for the children. The youth usually fear the police because when they do something naughty, their parents threaten them with the police. However, we hope this day showed them that they can depend on the authorities and speak to them openly without fear,” Henning said.

He stressed the importance of choosing friends wisely and speaking up when witnessing substance abuse or domestic violence.

Sergeant Portia Mabala from Social Crime Prevention added that, with the festive season approaching, families must look out for one another – especially their children.

Mohlakeng police constable Kagoemcha Kwezi explained that the event helped showcase the role authorities play in building a safer, more hopeful future for young people.

“We aimed to demonstrate to learners what we offer – we don’t just arrest criminals, we care for the community. Since Toekomsrus is rife with gangsterism, we selected this area to spread awareness. Children’s futures begin when they are young,” Kwezi said.

Teacher and programme director Windy Aphane noted that the township is small and often targeted by gangs, adding that these issues spill over into the school environment and disrupt learning.